Methylene Blue injection

July 17, 2018

Methylene Blue injection

What is this medicine?

METHYLENE BLUE (METH uh leen bloo) is used to treat methemoglobinemia. This is a condition in which the blood loses its ability to carry oxygen through the body.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • chest pain

  • confusion

  • dizziness

  • headache

  • increased sweating

  • stomach pain

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • blue-green coloration of urine and stools

  • nausea, vomiting

  • skin discoloration

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • bupropion

  • certain medicines for depression or anxiety

  • clomipramine

  • doxepin

  • duloxetine

  • fluoxetine

  • MAOIs like Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

  • milnacipran

  • mirtazapine

  • rasagiline

  • selegiline

  • St. John's wort

  • trazodone

  • tryptophan

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • cyanide poisoning

  • glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency

  • kidney disease

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to methylene blue, phenothiazines, thiazide diuretics, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.

Updated:  

July 17, 2018